Category Archives: Business

Walplast Reports Double-Digit Growth for HomeSure MasterTouch WaterLock Within First Year of Launch

Mumbai, 13th August, 2025: Walplast Products Pvt. Ltd., a leading player in India’s building and construction materials industry, has reported an impressive double-digit growth for its recently launched HomeSure MasterTouch WaterLock, an advanced waterproofing coating solution. Launched a year back, the product has already made significant inroads across the construction and infrastructure sectors, demonstrating Walplast’s ability to identify and deliver on-site needs with precision.

HomeSure MasterTouch WaterLock is an elastomeric, UV-resistant, acrylic polymer-based coating designed for waterproofing horizontal and vertical surfaces. Reinforced with acrylic polymers and synthetic fibers, the product cures to form a seamless membrane that offers long-lasting protection and performance. Tested against international standards including ASTM D 412, EN 1015-12, IS 2645, and internal protocols, it has been engineered to meet modern construction demands with efficiency and durability.

This single-pack solution can be applied directly to vertical and horizontal surfaces (roofs, terraces, parapets, sunshades, and external walls), making it suitable for both new construction and repair work. Key features include resistance to up to 5 bars of positive hydrostatic pressure, high crack-bridging capability, excellent flexibility, and strong adhesion to masonry substrates. Its ease of application and re-coating make it an ideal solution for builders, contractors, and project managers seeking time-saving, reliable waterproofing systems. Walplast offers up to 6 years of warranty for HomeSure MasterTouch WaterLock, further underlining the product’s quality and reliability.

Commenting on the growth, Kaushal Mehta, Managing Director, Walplast Products Pvt. Ltd., said, “The outstanding performance of HomeSure MasterTouch WaterLock in just its first year shows our commitment to solving real-world site challenges. This product was developed to address the increasing need for dependable waterproofing systems in India’s diverse climate conditions. Its rapid market acceptance validates both the performance and the trust that professionals place in the HomeSure range. We are confident that HomeSure MasterTouch WaterLock will continue to set benchmarks in waterproofing protection.”

Aniruddha Sinha, Sr. Vice President, Walplast Products Pvt. Ltd., added, “Customers today are looking for solutions that not only deliver performance but also offer peace of mind. With HomeSure MasterTouch WaterLock, we have combined ease of use, robust technical capabilities, and a warranty of up to 6 years to ensure long-term satisfaction. Its traction across markets reflects the trust we have built among applicators and developers alike.”

Walplast has progressively grown its HomeSure brand across core markets such as Maharashtra, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh, supported by a strong network of 800+ distributors, 6000+ dealers, and 65,000+ influencers. The expansion of its waterproofing portfolio strengthens its position as a comprehensive solutions provider in the building materials space, offering products spanning Wall Putty, Tile Adhesives, Gypsum-based products, Construction Chemicals, Admixtures, Paints, and AAC blocks.

Fern Hotels & Resorts Powers Significant Expansion of ‘Series by Marriott’

Bengaluru, 13^th August 2025:  The Fern Hotels & Resorts, India’s leading environmentally sensitive hotel chain, is proud to announce strong response to its newest venture ‘Series by Marriott’ an exclusive brand collaboration with Marriott International. Since its launch, the strategic collaboration has witnessed an exceptional response from the Indian hospitality sector, with more than ten new independent hotel owners signing Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) in the first month alone.

In addition to the new signings, most of the hotel owners have expressed their confidence in the brand’s vision and are working towards transitioning their current properties and affiliating to the Series by Marriott brand.  This rapid uptake signals strong faith in the combined strength of The Fern’s sustainability-driven ethos and Marriott’s world-class standards of excellence.

The brand’s momentum was further reinforced at The Fern Day, celebrated during the prestigious Global Design & Development Confluence 2025, hosted by Marriott International in collaboration with Hotelier India. A major highlight of the event was the reveal of the Mock-Up Room, a model room showcasing The Fern Hotels & Resorts, Series by Marriott design philosophy. With a focus on sustainability and eco-conscious design elements, the room received overwhelming appreciation from developers, hoteliers and industry leaders alike.

Sharing his thoughts on this significant achievement Rajeev Menon – President, Asia Pacific Excluding China, Marriott International said- “With most of the Fern Hotels across India set to join Marriott International’s portfolio, it is a powerful testament to the trust in Marriott’s brand strength, distribution network, and world-class standards.  This also marks a significant leap for our company’s growth story in India, a nation that is set to be Marriott’s third largest market globally. Series by Marriott’s launch across India will underscore our growth strategy outside getaway cities and further highlight our ability to deliver value to owners and exceptional experiences to guests. Our collaboration with The Fern Hotels & Resorts is off to a fabulous start, and we are excited about the opportunities this will unlock in the years ahead”

Adding his thoughts, Mr Rahul Chaudhary – Managing Director & CEO, CG Corp Global and CG Hospitality Holdings said – “Our vision is to expand to 500 hotels in the next 5 years and we are already seeing strong momentum towards that goal after our collaboration with Marriott International.  This alliance brings together the best of global hospitality, excellence and The Fern’s deep rooted sustainability focus, creating a growth platform that benefits our guests, partners and communities”

 Mr. Suhail Kannampilly, Managing Director, The Fern Hotels & Resorts, said, “The response we’ve received for The Fern Hotels & Resorts, Series by Marriott has surpassed all expectations. It is heartening to see such alignment between our commitment to sustainable hospitality and the industry’s growing appetite for innovation, comfort and responsible design. We’re excited to grow this collaboration and expand our footprint across India.”

 With a surge in interest and a pipeline of new collaborations already in motion, The Fern Hotels & Resorts is optimistic about the future as more hotels carry The Fern Hotels & Resorts, Series by Marriott flag. As the brand moves forward, it remains committed to delivering exceptional experiences.

Mukand Sumi Special Steel Commissions New Blooming Mill from Danieli India

Mukand Sumi Special Steel Ltd. Places Order for
New Blooming Mill with Danieli India Limited

Mumbai, 13th August: Mukand Sumi Special Steel Ltd. (MSSSL) is pleased to announce a significant milestone in its growth journey with the placement of an order for a state-of-the-art New Blooming Mill with Danieli India Limited, a global leader in metallurgical equipment and solutions.

The Letter of Intent (LoI) for this landmark project was formally handed over by Mr. Niraj Bajaj, Chairman & Managing Director, Mukand Sumi Special Steel Ltd., to Mr. Giacomo Mareschi Danieli, Chief Executive Officer, Danieli Group, during a high-level strategic meeting held recently. This investment marks a major leap forward in Mukand Sumi’s commitment to technological advancement, enhanced production capabilities, and quality leadership in the specialty steel sector. The new blooming mill will be capable of rolling up to 200 mm Diameter rounds from blooms up to 380mm x 420 mm, providing enhanced flexibility and improved quality control & optimisation of the product-mix across product lines.

Commenting on the development, Mr. Vipul Mashruwala, President, Mukand Sumi Special Steel Ltd., said: “This is more than just a capacity expansion – it’s a statement of our intent to lead the future of special steel manufacturing in India. Partnering with Danieli ensures that we are equipped with the best-in-class technology to meet rising domestic and global demand with precision, reliability, and sustainability.”

The upcoming Blooming Mill, to be installed at Mukand Sumi’s plant in Hospet, Karnataka, is expected to significantly boost the company’s capability to produce high-quality special steel products with better yield, improved surface quality, and increased productivity. This is in line with MSSSL’s long-term vision to cater to growing demand across sectors such as automotive, engineering, Bearing, Oil & Gas, energy, and infrastructure.

Studio Abrash Unveils Morris Rug Collection – Where Art Nouveau Meets the Loom

We’re delighted to introduce The Morris Collection – the latest chapter in Studio Abrash’s portfolio of luxury hand-knotted rugs. Inspired by the enduring legacy of the Arts and Crafts movement and the visionary work of William Morris, this collection is a heartfelt tribute to nature, craftsmanship, and timeless beauty.

Morris draws deeply from the aesthetics of English gardens- think curling vines, acanthus leaves, flowering tulips, marigolds, and daisies rendered in lyrical, flowing forms. Each design is a visual ode to symmetry and softness, capturing the delicate interplay of structure and spontaneity found in the natural world.

Hand-knotted in premium hand-spun wool and pure silk, the rugs exude a rich texture and gentle sheen. The colour palette evokes the mood of vintage botanical prints and 19th-century tapestries  with earthy greens, muted blues, dusty rose, and antique gold harmonising effortlessly with both classic and modern interiors.

The Morris Collection balances ornamental detailing with quiet restraint. Its compositions are thoughtfully constructed, making them ideal for a range of settings from contemporary apartments to heritage homes where elegance and storytelling go hand in hand.

Studio Abrash offers complete customisation across design, size, shape, colour, texture, fibre, and budget. Woven by master artisans across India, every rug is a slow-made masterpiece crafted with care, imbued with meaning, and built to be cherished across generations.

Celebrate Independence Day With a Special Lunch at ITC Gardenia

Commemorate the epoch-making of the Independence Day at ITC Gardenia and relish succulent indulges permeated in the hues of the tricolor.

Treat yourself to a magnificent Patriotic Feast uniting customary dishes from across India, and celebrate the ethos of India at ITC Gardenia. Savour an extravagant festive lunch spread at Cubbon Pavilion, which comes together to offer a plethora of delicacies all adding up to an experience without compare. Indulge in traditional Indian delicacies like ghosht dum biryani, paneer masala, dal makhni, along with a range of desserts.

ITC Gardenia invites you to soak in devoted flavours that celebrates the solidarity and diversity of the nation, coupled with innate culinary offerings and exemplary service.

A Culinary Sojourn awaits you!

Promotion Dates
Friday, 15th August 2025

Relaxo Footwears Launches “Freedom Bonanza Offer” to Celebrate Independence Day 2025

New Delhi, August 12, 2025: Relaxo Footwears Ltd., India’s largest footwear manufacturer, has announced the launch of its “Freedom Bonanza Offer” – a special Independence Day campaign packed with exciting discounts for customers across the country.

Running from August 8th to 17th, 2025, the campaign gives shoppers a chance to enjoy up to 20% off on their favourite footwear styles from Relaxo’s wide range of brands. All they need to do is scan the QR code available in stores or on digital platforms to receive a unique discount code, making the shopping experience easy, interactive, and fun.

The offer is applicable across popular brands like Sparx, Flite, and Bahamas, giving customers great options in trendy, comfortable, and high-quality footwear for every need.

This limited-time offer is exclusively available at Relaxo EBOs across India and is valid only on fresh stock. It cannot be combined with other ongoing schemes or discounts.

With its legacy of delivering comfort, quality, and style, Relaxo continues to celebrate special moments with its customers through value-packed offers and festive campaigns.

So go ahead- grab your perfect pair and step into freedom with style and big savings!

Hyatt Regency Pune Hosts Independence Day Brunch at Pune 14

Pune, India, 12th August 2025: Hyatt Regency Pune invites guests to commemorate the 79th Independence Day of India with a spectacular Independence Day Themed Brunch at Pune 14, the hotel’s signature all-day dining destination. This special celebration will be hosted on Friday, 15th August and Sunday, 17th August 2025, offering guests two opportunities to indulge in a vibrant feast of flavours inspired by the colours and spirit of the nation.

Guests can look forward to a lavish buffet featuring regional Indian favourites, live cooking stations, tricolour-inspired desserts, and an array of global specialties, all prepared by the hotel’s talented culinary team. To complement the dining experience, Pune 14 will be adorned with patriotic décor, live music, and a warm festive ambience perfect for families and friends to gather.

Highlights include:

• A grand buffet spread celebrating India’s culinary diversity
• Tricolour-themed desserts and artisanal sweets
• Live music performances enhancing the festive spirit
• Special activities for children and family-friendly entertainment

Event Details:

1.  Friday, 15th August & Sunday, 17th August 2025
2.  12:30 PM – 4:00 PM
3.  Pune 14, Hyatt Regency Pune & Residences

Speaking on the occasion, Ramandeep Marwah, General Manager, Hyatt Regency Pune, said:
“Independence Day is a time to reflect on our nation’s journey and celebrate the spirit of unity. Our Independence Day Brunch at Pune 14 brings together the rich tapestry of Indian cuisine with the warmth of togetherness, making it a memorable experience for our guests.”

The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts Celebrates the Graduation of the Leela Leadership Development Programme – Class of 2025

New Delhi, August 12, 2025: The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts proudly celebrated the graduation of the Class of 2025 of its prestigious Leela Leadership Development Programme (LLDP) at a grand ceremony hosted at The Leela Palace New Delhi. This momentous occasion marked the culmination of an intensive 15-month journey for 40 management trainees, now appointed as Assistant Managers across The Leela.

The event was graced by distinguished guests including Mr. Amitabh Kant, Ex-Sherpa G20, India and Former CEO, NITI Aayog, as Guest of Honour, alongside Mr. Manish Malhotra, India’s leading Fashion Designer, Couturier, Entrepreneur and Filmmaker; Mr. Dipak Deva, Managing Director, Travel Corporation India Ltd. (TCI); Mr. Mukesh Butani, Co-founder, BMR Legal & Independent Director, The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts; and Ms. Louise Kennedy, International Fashion Designer based in London and Dublin. Proud family members of the graduates joined industry stalwarts and senior leaders of The Leela to honour the new cohort of luxury leaders.

Launched in May 2022 in partnership with the Indian School of Hospitality (ISH) in alliance with Les Roches, Leela Leadership Development Programme is a world-class management training programme designed to identify, nurture, and fast-track the finest talent in hospitality into senior leadership roles. The curriculum blends functional expertise, leadership development, and luxury consumer insights through immersive classroom sessions, cross-functional exposure and on-the-job training, all anchored in Atithi Devo Bhava-Guest is God, The Leela’s guiding ethos.

“At The Leela, we believe that people are our greatest asset, and the Leela Leadership Development Programme is where we shape the leaders who will define the future of luxury hospitality. Talent is the cornerstone of our leadership in this industry, and investing in that talent is both a responsibility and a privilege. This career-defining journey blends global best practices with the soul of Indian hospitality, building a leadership pipeline that is diverse, future-ready and deeply rooted in our ethos. We are incredibly proud of the Class of 2025 and look forward to seeing them make their mark as they carry forward The Leela’s rich legacy.” — Anuraag Bhatnagar, Chief Executive Officer, The Leela Palaces, Hotels and Resorts.

Diversity continues to be a defining strength of the programme, with over 40% of the graduating batch being women and participants representing varied academic backgrounds and specialisations. The Class of 2025 brings together graduates across Rooms, Food & Beverage, Sales & Marketing, Human Resources, and Culinary streams, reflecting the depth and breadth of leadership talent being cultivated.

Ms. Isha Goyal, Senior Vice President & Head – Human Resources, added: “The Leela Leadership Development Programme is a strategic talent initiative that enables us to build a robust leadership pipeline internally, ensuring we have the right people in the right roles at the right time. By providing a clear and accelerated career pathway, we are not only attracting top talent from the industry but also ensuring their long-term growth within The Leela.”

The Leela Leadership Development Programme has quickly earned a reputation as one of the most coveted management training programmes in Indian hospitality, with graduates fast-tracked to managerial roles and a clear trajectory toward General Manager and senior leadership positions within 12–13 years.

Applications for the Class of 2027 will soon open, welcoming both internal and external candidates with a bachelor’s degree in hospitality, at least one year’s experience in a luxury hotel, excellent communication skills, and demonstrated leadership potential to embark on this transformative career journey with The Leela.

Sri Lanka’s Premium Tea Brand Tea Avenue Makes Grand India Debut in Collaboration with FranGlobal

New Delhi, 12th August 2025 : In a major step forward for premium lifestyle and beverage experiences, Tea Avenue, Sri Lanka’s most beloved homegrown tea café chain, is all set to mark its India entry in collaboration with FranGlobal, the international business arm of Franchise India Group. This strategic alliance heralds a new chapter in cross-border brand expansion and reflects the ever-growing appetite for curated global tea experiences among Indian consumers.

The De Silva family, in tea since 1936, launched Tea Avenue to carry forward its heritage through a vibrant, contemporary cafe culture. With over four generations of tea mastery, the brand has evolved into an immersive lifestyle destination that celebrates tea in its purest and most innovative forms. Now, with its entry into India- one of the world’s largest tea-loving nations- Tea Avenue is poised to resonate deeply with discerning Indian palates.

“India has a deep, cultural love affair with tea, and Tea Avenue is more than just a café- it’s a sensorial journey steeped in heritage,” said Gaurav Marya, Chairman, Franchise India Group. “This partnership is about delivering authenticity, innovation, and creating modern tea experiences that feel personal and premium. We are excited to bring this globally admired brand to the Indian market at a time when consumer demand for artisanal and high-quality F&B formats is at an all-time high.”

With this collaboration, Tea Avenue has ambitious plans to open multiple outlets across India’s metropolitan cities in the next 12 to 18 months, beginning with Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore. Operating under a Franchise-Owned, Franchise-Operated (FOFO) model. The brand offers a flexible franchise format—from full cafes and mini cafés to hotel tea corners and kiosks—designed to suit different investor goals and locations.

“India has always been a dream destination for us,” said Sajeev De Silva, Founder, Tea Avenue. “There’s a unique emotional and cultural alignment between Sri Lanka and India when it comes to tea. With FranGlobal’s expertise and reach, we are confident that our brand will find a second home here and build lasting connections with Indian tea lovers.”

The brand also introduces retail products such as elegant tea tins, assortment boxes, and gift sets, allowing customers to take home a piece of Tea Avenue’s heritage.

This Indo-Lankan partnership arrives at a time when global café culture is shifting toward experience-driven, quality-first models, and Tea Avenue is set to redefine how India enjoys its favourite beverage- whether through sit-down café moments or quick sips at bustling kiosks.

With a vision of launching over 200 outlets globally by 2035, this collaboration is just the beginning. Tea Avenue and FranGlobal are brewing a revolution in India’s premium tea space- one aromatic cup at a time.

This Independence Day, Glen Appliances Pledges to Make 2 Lakh Indian Kitchens Smoke-Free by the End of 2025

August 12, 2025, New Delhi, India: A smoke-free kitchen is not a luxury, it’s a necessity for a healthy home. Ahead of Independence Day, Glen Appliances, one of India’s leading kitchen appliance brands, is leading this cause through a national awareness drive that educates consumers on the health benefits of using chimneys. Through a mix of online and offline activations, including a collaboration with micro-influencers, Glen aims to spark conversations around indoor air quality and inspire Indian households to invest in cleaner, safer cooking spaces.

As part of this initiative, Glen has pledged to make 2 lakh Indian kitchens smoke-free by the end of 2025. To support this goal, the brand is offering up to 60% off on its advanced, energy-efficient BLDC chimney range that is designed to combine powerful smoke extraction with up to 50% lower power consumption and quieter operation.

The National Family Health Survey reveals that most Indian households still cook in enclosed or semi-ventilated spaces, allowing smoke and harmful particles to accumulate indoors. While nearly 60% have transitioned to cleaner fuels such as LPG, biogas, or electricity, health risks remain due to pollutants like nitrogen dioxide, carbon monoxide, and fine particulate matter.  Some studies show that prolonged exposure to these pollutants can irritate the respiratory system, worsen asthma, and increase the risk of severe illnesses, including lung cancer and cardiovascular disease.

Indoor air pollution caused by cooking smoke is one of the most overlooked health hazards in India. Glen’s BLDC (Brushless Direct Current) chimneys are engineered to reduce smoke, odour, and airborne grease more effectively than conventional chimneys, offering a long-lasting solution for healthier homes.

“Since 1999, we have been addressing an invisible health hazard that’s present in nearly every Indian kitchen,” said Rintu Dasgupta, Chief Operating Officer, Glen Appliances. “This Independence Day, we are not just celebrating freedom, we are advocating for freedom from smoke. Our goal is to create healthier homes with smarter appliances.”

The Independence Day campaign will run nationwide through Glen’s 150+ retail stores, e-commerce platforms, and social media channels, supported by educational content, expert tips, and exclusive product offers.

Beyond chimneys, Glen’s extensive range of kitchen solutions – including cooktops, built-in ovens, hobs, water purifiers, and small appliances is designed for modern Indian households. As a proudly Indian brand, Glen continues to innovate with sustainability at the core, from energy-efficient designs to eco-conscious packaging and manufacturing practices.